Storytelling Saga

Ali discusses the defining moments of Beatrice Horseman (née Sugarman) as seen in flashbacks of BoJack's terrible childhood, her own tragic childhood depicted in the season 4 episode, "The Old Sugarman Place," further exploration of pivotal points in her life that led to her bitter adulthood all shown through her shaky memories in the fantastic penultimate episode of season 4, "Time's Arrow," BoJa...

Ali discusses what goes into writing a TV comedy pilot for this special 100th episode of the podcast! She talks about the two main things any pilot should accomplish as well as the difference between a premise pilot and an episodic pilot, drawing examples from some of her favorites while also talking about how the television landscape has changed over the years.

Ali discusses the brilliant Pixar movie, Inside Out, directed by Pete Docter, praising the imaginative concept and emotional storytelling that make it one of the best Pixar films. Afterward, she shares an Inside Out story she wrote called "An Emotional First Date."

Ali discusses the hilarious movie, Superbad, written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, sharing her favorite lines and her appreciation for the sweet moments that capture the genuine yet changing friendship between the two main characters.

Ali discusses the Disney movie, Hercules,  praising the stellar soundtrack and strong character arcs, all the while reminiscing about seeing the film in theaters and watching it repeatedly with her siblings on VHS.

Ali discusses the hit '90s Nickelodeon sitcom, Kenan & Kel, created by Kim Bass and starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. She reminisces about watching the show as a kid on the SNICK lineup each week, sharing clips from some of her favorite episodes that showcase the silly storylines and iconic lines that anyone who grew up with this show can still quote to this day. Aw, here it goes!

Ali discusses her favorite books she read in elementary school, including Charlotte's Web, Holes and the Junie B. Jones  series.

Ali discusses the beloved independent black-and-white comedy film, Clerks, written and directed by Kevin Smith. She talks about her main takeaway from the movie and key conversations, plus her thoughts on the original ending.

Ali discusses the musical dramedy series, Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist, created by Austin Winsberg. She shares how it captivated her from the start, praising the show's moving themes, beautiful choreography and talented cast while sharing her favorite moments of empathy and character growth throughout the first season.

Ali discusses the wonderful show, Schitt's Creek, created by Dan Levy and Eugene Levy, praising the series for its realistic character growth while highlighting its perfect blend of heart and humor as she shares her favorite hilarious moments and emotional scenes that make this show the epitome of love and joy.

Ali discusses the breakout hit DreamWorks movie, Shrek, and her personal favorite film of the franchise, Shrek 2, recounting the irreverent humor, sweet moments and timeless themes all wrapped up in a fun fairy tale universe.

Ali discusses the long-running family mockumentary series, Modern Family, created by Steven Levitan and Christopher Lloyd. She shares how she got into the show, scenes that always make her laugh, favorite emotional moments and episodes with clever storytelling methods, plus her thoughts on the series finale.

Ali interviews author and TV writer, Nick Adams, whose writing credits include New Girl, black•ish, People of Earth, Tuca & Bertie and BoJack Horseman . Nick shares what his process was for writing his book, Making Friends with Black People , what it's like working in a TV writers' room, favorite jokes he's contributed, hitting a crucial story beat in one of the final episodes of BoJack he wrote,...

Ali caps off '80s Movies Month by discussing the timeless comedy and mystery movie, Who Framed Roger Rabbit. She reminisces about watching it for the first time over her cousins' house one New Year's Eve, sharing her favorite moments while praising its seamless blend of animation and live-action.

Ali continues '80s Movies Month by discussing The Princess Bride, a movie she's always heard about but had never seen until now. She shares her first impressions and favorite moments, plus a few shows she's seen that have paid homage to this beloved film.

Ali continues '80s Movies Month by discussing another iconic movie written and directed by John Hughes, Ferris Bueller's Day Off. She recaps her favorite moments and shares which part of the movie is her favorite overall. She also talks about its wonderful and always relevant message, favorite parodied scenes and which two characters she feels had the most satisfying arcs.

Ali kicks off '80s Movies Month (the first themed month of the podcast!) by discussing the iconic movie written and directed by John Hughes, The Breakfast Club. She recaps the film's memorable scenes while praising its brilliant writing, relatable themes and unforgettable ending.

Ali talks a little bit about the COVID-19 pandemic. Then she reminisces about favorite concerts she's attended over the years.

Ali discusses the movie, Juno, sharing some of her favorite lines from this witty and heartfelt coming-of-age comedy-drama. She also recalls a sweet memory from when she saw it in theaters.

Ali discusses Kathryn Stockett's debut bestselling novel, The Help, recapping key plot points amidst the heartbreakingly honest portrayal of racism during the 1960s, all the while praising the realistic characters and how much they truly make you feel.

Ali discusses the existential play, Waiting for Godot, written by Samuel Beckett, highlighting the various interpretations of this unconventional play.

Ali discusses the last season of  BoJack Horseman,  sharing her thoughts on the final arcs for BoJack, Diane, Princess Carolyn, Todd and Mr. Peanutbutter. She also talks about the brilliant penultimate episode, "The View From Halfway Down," sharing a few behind-the-scene tidbits along the way, and she praises the series finale, "Nice While It Lasted," as a wonderful send-off to this exceptional sh...

Ali shares a new short story she wrote called "Here's What It's Like" for this special bonus episode.

Ali discusses her favorite show about a group of lovable weirdos, New Girl, created by Liz Meriwether. She shares her favorite episodes from each season, touching on hilarious one-liners, heartwarming couple milestones and sweet friendship moments that make this series the perfect blend of humorous and heartfelt. Afterward, she shares a New Girl story she wrote called "Again."

Ali discusses "Nirvana," an award-winning short story by Adam Johnson, recapping key plot points and sharing why the story stuck with her.